Outlook: The Spartans gave the Gophers a test in the first half of their meeting last season. The Gophers pulled away in second for a 19-point victory.

This time around bodes better for the Gophers. They are trending upward while the Spartans took a step back last season.

The Spartans lost five more games in 2013 than they did 2012 and failed to make a bowl game (even though they had a .500 record). They were a streaky team last season with three streaks of three or more wins/losses. They finished the season winning one of their last four games, including two losses at home.

The Gophers should head into the conference portion of their schedule with no fewer than three wins. An undefeated 4-0 mark is easily attainable with a game at Texas Christian University posing as the most difficult game.

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Joseph has a Bachelor's of Arts in Media Production with an emphasis in Print Journalism from Hastings College in Hastings, Neb. While at Hastings College, he was a part of the first collegiate media group to broadcast a national tournament via television, radio, internet and newspaper at the 2004 NAIA Division II Women's Basketball Tournament. He grew up playing football, baseball and hockey. Contact Joseph.